Life-long learning is the foundation for economic success and social development. Vocational initial training and continuing education  are an important part of this process. However, their impact first becomes evident when supply and demand converge on the labour market.

In Egypt today, business and government jointly determine the training content, regulate certification and ensure quality. High rates of youth unemployment, however, demand an approach that goes even farther; such an approach can only be implemented as part of a joint effort by government, business and the civil society. Now training is not only linked to occupational counselling and job placement, but also monitored. Tracking effectiveness in this way is important for the development of a youth employment strategy.

In Bhopal, India, innovation und specialisation are supported by the Centre for Research and Industrial Staff Performance (CRISP). Here small and medium-sized enterprises receive advice on the use of new production techniques and employee training. With ten years of collaboration unter their belt CRISP is now a regional centre for research and development.

In Uganda only 10 percent of the gainfully employed population work in the formal economy. Three community polytechnics offer income-generating training for rural communities. Young people find the support they need here to successfully start up a business.